1703 English Female Author Publishes Poem on Marriage

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Lady Mary Chudleigh

Lady Mary Chudleigh (1656-1710) was a woman ahead of her time, churning out feminist rhetoric even as she lived her life within the rigid confines of 17th-century England.

To The Ladies

Wife and servant are the same,
But only differ in the name:
For when that fatal knot is ty’d,
Which nothing, nothing can divide:
When she the word obey has said,
And man by law supreme has made,
Then all that’s kind is laid aside,
And nothing left but state and pride:
Fierce as an eastern prince he grows
And all his innate rigor shows:
Then but to look, to laugh, or speak,
Will the nuptual contract break.
Like mutes, she signs alone must make,
And never any freedom take:
But still be govern’d by a nod,
And fear her husband as a God:
Him still must serve, him still obey,
And nothing act, and nothing say,
But what her haughty lord thinks fit,
Who with the power, has all the wit.
Then shun, oh! shun that wretched state,
And all the fawning flatt’rers hate:
Value yourselves, and Men despise:
You must be proud, if you’ll be wise.

-Lady Mary Chudleigh

Mary Chudleigh was part of an intellectual circle that included Mary Astell, Elizabeth Thomas, Judith Drake, Elizabeth Elstob, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, & John Norris. In her later years, she published a book of poetry (1703) & 2 books of essays, all dealing with feminist themes; 2 of her books went through 4 editions during the last 10 years of her life. Her poetry about human relationships has been anthologized & reprinted ever since.

Mary, the daughter of Richard Lee, was born in August of 1656, at Winslade in Devon, England. While she, like most women of her time, received little in the way of formal education, she read widely & educated herself in theology, science, & philosophy. She married Sir George Chudleigh of Ashton in Devon. They had at least three children: Eliza Maria, George (the next Sir George), Thomas, & possibly others. Little else is known about her life except for the fact that her daughter must have died young, as her grief is mentioned in her letters & some poetry. Mary Chudleigh died in 1710.
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SMAK 2011

It is Sunday morning and Missi and I are the only two stirring right now  The view from the Cathy's apartment is amazing.  But let me start at the beginning.....we got here at midnight EDT on Thursday, visited briefly with Cathy and then went to bed.  She has to be at work at 9 and is then flying home to Springfield to be with her husband this weekend.  We had breakfast at the greatest Portuguese bakery....had things we cannot pronounce and drove down to see Buzzard Bay.  What a surprise when we looked out into the water and saw the US Coast Guard ship....The Eagle.  Photo op for sur.  We then headed to Newport for the day.  It was overcast of Friday.  We toured the Vanderbuilt House - "the Breakers"....what a prime example of the very rich.  We toodled around all day seeing the sites and then went downtown and did some shopping.  We went back to the apartment and then later headed out to dinner at at a local favorites....Davy's Locker.  The food was yummy.  They are known for their scallops and clams. Back to the apartment and to bed so that we can get up and be in Hyannis Port by 8 for our ferry ride to Martha's Vineyard.....then to Nantucket....then home.....at 10:10 last night.  What a day....we took the bus route on Martha's Vineyard....not the way to go....you spend most of your short time waiting for one.  We rented a car on Nantucket....that was money well spent.  We packed a lot into the time we were there.  When we loaded the ferry home we noticed that we were not on the speed ferry we were supposed to be on.....we were on the slow boat to China...and it was HOT!   Amanda spoke with the steward....and we took the slow boat....in First Class.  Whooo hoooo....cheese and fruit....and AIR CONDITIONING!  We got back....walked the forty miles to where the car was parked...drove through Micky D's....it was the only place open at latethirty.  We got to the apartment....I washed a load of clothes.....put them in the dryer....and put another load on....and went to bed.  I can't wait to show you the pictures.

I'm a Traveling One

"For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel's sake. The great affair is to move."- Robert Louis Stevenson
I could so be related to this man.  From the time I was old enough to talk my mom said my middle name was "Go!"  I have always loved to travel.  I want to see it all.  I prefer traveling by car so if I see something I want to explore I can stop and check it out.  Plane travel kind of eliminates that mobility option.  I am not a fond user of our vast Interstate system.....but will use it when my time is limited.  When Kat and I went to PEI we used it to very seldom.  The majority of the trip was on US 1.  Speaking of US1.  It runs from Florida to Maine.  It is a long road and filled with hidden wonders.  From past travels I have seen the Wedding Cake House in Kennebuckport.  I have traveled A1-A, playing Jimmy Buffett music as far as I could, tasted conch fritters and key lime pie in Key West, and seen Heminway's House. I have found some of the greatest local gift shops and bookstores.  I have eaten fabulous food at places that are off the beat and path.  I have seen the World's Largest Ball of Twine - made famous in the movie Michael (with John Travolta).  Darwin, MN was where we were.  We also have seen the mighty redwoods in California....and they are breathtaking.  Been to Hannibal, MO where Mark Twain penned his most profound works.  Followed part of the Lewis and Clark Trail cross country.  I have truly seen the purple mountain magesties, a cattle drive of long horn steers, seen a real Pony Express Station, been where they filmed Dances with Wolves, seen lighthouses on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts(I still want to volunteer in one some summer), the Golden Gate Bridge, the Grand Canyon, Mankato, MI (where the Little House series took place)....and my list goes on and on.  Which place was my favorite....they all are.  Every trip brings a new favorite place to add to my bulging list of favs.  I love this great country and even though I have seen so much there is still so much to see....and I am ready to "GO!"  You just wait....tomorrow night I will return with my Project 365 pictures (yep...I have my camera with me)....and lots of stories about all the wonderful places I saw.  Tomorrow night I will have new favorite places to add....until the next time.  Hope your weekend is marvelous. 

Target Opponents

“No swim lessons tomorrow,” Natalie’s teacher told me on Wednesday.

My heart immediately lifted. This meant I could shop the 75% off Target toy sale on Thursday. I had been worried that I’d miss all the deals since Natalie has lessons in the morning.

Now they were cancelled.

Only...

Wait.

Why were they cancelled? Maybe all the teachers knew about the sale. Maybe they wanted to take all the toys. WHAT IF THEY TOOK ALL THE TOYS?

Okay.

Calm down.

If they take all the toys it doesn’t matt—

“Mommy?” Natalie tugged on my shirt. “Can we go?”

Oh. Right. Focus. I tend to go off into JD-from-Scrubs daydreams several times throughout the day.

I know, it’s silly to look forward to a sale. But 75% off toys is a fabulous deal. You can get stuff for birthdays. For Christmas. For bribes. Not that I bribe. (Okay, once in awhile. But it’s for GOOD things. Like good grades. Or…I once told Natalie, “If you stop crapping in your pants, you can have this creepy Yo Gabba Gabba doll.” And hey, it worked.)

I wasn’t even sure if I’d find any deals. I found them all the time at the Target in Wyoming, where I used to live.

But what if the Target in Oklahoma didn’t have any deals?

I couldn’t ask the workers. Most of them act as though you’re stupid if you mention a 75% off sale. I’m sure it’s in their training “don’t tell the customer if things are being marked down further. We’re here to make money people” but still, don’t blink at me and say things like, “Oh, toys never go that cheap.”

I hated the fact that I had to bring the kids, too. But I had no childcare. So they’d have to come along.

On Thursday morning we left the house around 9. A lot of people who shop this sale are at the Target doors at 8, when they open. I am not like this. I like my sleep.

So we get to Target and I get out of the car and start scanning the parking lot for people walking out with huge bags of toys. I saw a woman with a full cart and my heart dropped. She took everything. I’m too late. I’m—oh, wait, it was just filled with toilet paper. Phew.

“Mommy?” Natalie called. “Mommy?”

Crap! I left my kid. She was standing on the sidewalk, blinking at me as I walked away.

Parenting fail.

But really, why was she just STANDING there when we had a sale to get to? Sometimes I don’t understand her.

I went back and scooped her up.

“I want to walk,” Natalie said, struggling free. “I WANT TO WALK!”

My ears started to ring. Now I was partially deaf. But no matter, I didn’t need to hear in order to get great deals.

Natalie walked slowly. Then she’d stop for a few seconds, twirl around, and start walking again.

She knew she was bugging me.

She loves to bug me.

Ten minutes later we made it inside. I put her in a cage (re: the cart) and started heading for the toy section.

I saw the most beautiful site.

A Target worker was marking down all the toys 75% off.

And then I saw a horrifying site.

A woman was already there. With two carts filled with toys. (No, not Natalie’s swim teacher.)

TWO CARTS!

Still. I had to see if anything was left.

And lucky for me, there was. I mean, yes, Two Cart Lady took all the Transformers. And all the Princess stuff.

Apparently I’m cursed on having a Target Toy Sale opponent. In Wyoming, it was Old Lady Hog.

In Oklahoma, it’s Two Cart Lady.

See, I love a deal, but I never take ALL of everything. It’s common courtesy.

This lady, I suppose, didn’t get the memo.

Oh, well.

I managed to find this:




The Vtech laptop was $29.99. I got it for $7.48

The Cars 2 set was $39.99. I got it for $9.98

I only got that set because it fell out of Two Cart Lady’s cart and she didn’t notice. She kept walking towards the checkout and Natalie was like, “It’s the Cars movie. Hi, Lightening McQueen.”

So I scooped that baby right up.

Sadly, Two Cart Lady took all the Cars 2 Lego sets, the kind Tommy likes to build.

Next year, I’ll get to Target a little earlier and see if I can beat Two Cart Lady.

If I’m tired, well, there is a Starbucks in the Target.

So I’m all set.

Canaries in a Coal Mine

Several years ago I did an ASP (Appalachian Service Project) trip to West Virginia.  Where we were was coal mine country.  Every where I looked there were people who were suffering from Black Lung, broken bodies, loss of spouses...it was heartbreaking.  One of the men we worked for told me this horrific story about working in the coal mines....and as he told it I cried.  The funny thing is...I don't remember his name....but the story I will never forget.  "It seems that back in the 1700's, certain gases or the lack of oxygen were detected with various hit and miss types of detection. The candles on miners caps, or if carried by the miner, would either go out from the lack of oxygen or the flame would get larger with a different coloring of the flame if certain gases were in the area. Of course, in some instances these open flames caused fires or explosions. By 1815, the Davey's Safety Lamp came into use in the mines. This certainly changed the way for miners to check for certain gases. One of the earliest ways of detecting certain gases such as Methane, Carbon Monoxide or the lack of oxygen was the use of the Canary." Every miner or family of a miner that I spoke with all had stories of the use of canaries in the mines that had been passed down from one generation to the next. I have to admit that even as a small child I can remember my own father mentioning the use of canaries in the mines....and he never spent a day in one. Even on a trip to Dollywood one year....on one of the rides....there were canaries all throughout the mine....and at the last cage...the canary was dead...and that is when the explosion happened.  My mining historian told me that the big companies did not use this method so it was safe to assume that only small independent mines in those early years, you know the ones that contracted for the mining of coal on their property, might have used canaries for their mine work. The bigger companies all had Davey's Safety Lamps and any other technical means for checking oxygen or certain gases at the earliest of times. After hearing his story and upon returning home I began to research the use of canaries in the mines, and I was surprised to hear that some countries, like the United Kingdom and Australia used them right up to more modern times. The last documentation was actually in the 1970's when they passed laws against the use of birds in the mines. In later years, canaries were certainly used in collieries in the United Kingdom, but not on a daily basis. They were used following the "William Pit Explosion," in 1947, but to detect foul air for the rescue party. The lead man had a cage fastened to the top of his breathing apparatus, so that the man behind him could see when they had entered the "styth" or after-damp area. They then knew where they needed to start trying to restore the "coursing" of the air-flow, to direct fresh air into that area. Rescue teams kept a number of canaries on hand, but, it wasn't as cruel as you might think because once removed back to fresh air, most canaries recovered to be used again! Many mines used canaries to detect Carbon Monoxide and not Methane because their heart rate is so high they die or pass-out very quickly before a man could accumulate the gas in his blood stream to any harmful degree. Because of the high heart rate of the canary, it was convenient for the job, but notnecessarily too great for the poor canary! In more modern times they had special birdcages made of Perspex, which had holes drilled into it for ventilation on the forth side. When the bird fell off of the perch they closed an airtight door over the side with the ventilation holes and would revive the bird with oxygen so it could be used again. I also read where some miners actually carried small vials of oxygen and they let the bird breathe this to save the bird's life. Some of what I discovered was that "many of the mining companies in the United Kingdom, would buy their birds from private breeders, pet shops or have an aviary built right in a part of the mine offices where they would breed the birds for use in the mines. Most of the canaries used were of bad coloring, or some type of imperfection, which weren't good for public sale. Also, the female canaries weren't too good for singing so they would be sold cheaper for mine use. Mine canaries were also used in the Southern Bituminous Coal Fields of the United States up to the late 1890's. I would also have to assume that some of the smaller independent or "boot-leg" mines used the canaries in the early years because of the expense of a "Davey's Safety Lamp." Taking air samples in the early days was time consuming and had to be handled in special labs. In later years, a Methanometer was used in the mines which detected methane gases and oxygen levels. The safest mines have good ventilation systems with huge fans, airways and proper doors and brattice's to control the airflow. Many modern mines have electrical sensors built right in the mines. So, the "Mine Canary," is now history."  I was really glad to hear that.  Poor little song birds.

Diving Boards

I could tell you were scared.

When you raised your hand and said you’d jump off the diving board, I’m not sure you really thought things through.

Your teacher helped you out of the pool with a few other classmates that decided to brave the diving board. Most of the class, I noticed, stayed behind. The diving board, after all, was in the Deep End. You followed dutifully behind your class to the diving board and got in line.

One of your classmates went first. She marched across the diving board as if she owned it and leaped into the water where your teacher caught her. You were taking this all in, staring intently at your teacher to make sure that yes, she’d catch you.

Another classmate went next. This one was nervous, a small girl who walked across the diving board and paused at the very end. She looked down, swallowed, and backed up as though she had just spotted a monster.

It was at this moment when you let two of your classmates go ahead of you. I think you spotted the hesitation in someone else and that began to doubt your choice.

That nervous classmate climbed off the diving board and got behind you.

“Was it scary?” you asked her.

“Yes,” she answered. “But I’m going to try again.”

I watched you take a deep breath. It was then I knew that you would do it. I could see the determination on your face.

Finally, it was your turn. You climbed up the stairs, gripping the rails. You shuffled across the diving board. It was like a string had been tied around your ankles. Shuffle, shuffle, shuffle.



And then you were at the end.

You swallowed.

You scratched your leg.

You decided to sit down.

“No, Natalie,” your teacher said kindly as she waited below. “You have to jump.”

I’m not sure if you suddenly decided the end of a diving board was a fantastic place to play tea or what.

You stood up and took another deep breath. You bent your knees.

You did it.



The teacher asked if you wanted to go again. I thought you might say no. But you said yes.

This time, you were ready.

And you walked across the diving board....




...as if you owned it.

The Canary List

Price: $13.99 for paperback

Format: Trade Paperback/ebook

ISBN: 9780307446466

Release: 6.21.2011

Fiction - Suspense

Book Summary: Protected by the dark of night, Jaimie Piper, a twelve year old foster child runs. Why? The reason she runs is because all of her life Evil has hunted her. The twelve year-old has been bumped around from one foster home to another and finds herself assigned to school classes for challenged kids, those lagging in their test scores or with behavioral issues. Her challenge, or real problem, is that she can sense something the other kids can’t—something dark. Something is compelling her to run for her life. Crockett Grey, her teacher, simply wants to mark the anniversary of his daughter’s death alone with a bottle of booze. But when Jaimie shows up at her house, terrified, her need for protection collides with his grief, and a tangled web of bizarre events sends them both spiraling toward destruction. Crockett’s one hope of getting his life back is to uncover the mysterious secrets of Jaimie’s past and her strange gift. It isn’t long before his discoveries lead him to a darker conspiracy, secrets guarded by the highest seat of power in the world—the Vatican.
About the Author: Sigmund Brouwer is a well-known author with books published by mainstream and evangelical publishers. He has written scores of books across many genres, from children's picture books to scientific thrillers, and more. A favorite cause of Brouwer's is to encourage children to love books. He visits 80,000 students per year at schools across North America to present Rock And Roll Literacy, drawing on the theme that great stories, like great songs, engage our feelings. To help with the literacy cause, he has also co-written two hockey fiction books in French with Gaston Gingras, who won a Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 1986. Brouwer also frequently presents Rock and Roll Literacy with six-time Stanley Cup Champion and NHL Hall-of-Famer Bryan Trottier, all in efforts to hook reluctant readers. Sigmund Brouwer has nearly 3 million copies of his books in print. Want to know more about him? Visit his website at http://www.sigmundbrouwer.com/
My Thoughts: As a Southerner I know the responsibilities canaries carry out in mines. I was not sure how that was going to fit into a book about a foster child, a man accused of a crime he did not commit, and the Vatican. I wondered what the three had in common. The Canary List was not at all what I had expected the storyline to be. Although the book is about the Vatican there was no Christian message in the plot at all. I found the book to be a kind of Nicholas Sparks vs. Angels and Demons story. The book is fiction and I am not sure how much of the information it gives about the Catholic Church is true and how much is embellished but after reading the book it drove me to go online and research much of the information about the Catholic Church and its rituals and ceremonies. The antagonist of the story, EVIL, seems to be present everywhere, even in the Vatican and Catholic church. This book was interesting-but it may not be for everyone. From the moment I began the book I did not want to put it down and I had to finish it to see what would happen in the end and even then I was not very satisfied with the finale and wanted more. The Canary List was a good read but not a five stars read. I did like Brouwers style and will read another book by him.  This was my very first ebook.  I consider myself somewhat of  a reading purist and love the feel of a real book in my hands.  I liked the ebook concept.
Disclaimer: This book was given to me by Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Company to review, I was not paid or rewarded for my review in any way.

CoverMates Help! Review and Giveaway**CLOSED

**CLOSED--winner was posted here***






Messy microwaves.

We’ve all experienced them.

Or maybe I’ve just experienced them because sometimes I’m too lazy to clean mine out.

Or sometimes Tom has decided to re-heat chili and not put something over it to prevent the splatters and I’m like, “You know what? I’m tired of cleaning up after everyone else.”

Want to know a good way to prevent messy microwaves?






These! They’re called CoverMates. A lovely representative from Rosica Public Relations sent them to me so I could review them. They come in three different sizes: medium, large, and extra large.




No, they aren’t a hat. Sorry, Natalie.

See, my problem is I have a lot of plastic containers but I’m always losing the lids to them. Where do all the lids go? I’m not sure. Probably where all the missing socks end up. It’s like a mystery.

Anyway.

These CoverMates work perfectly as a lid.





Before I had been covering the containers with foil and that didn’t always work well. I’m awful with judging how much foil I’d need so I’d waste so much.

With the CoverMates, I no longer have to waste foil. I just pull one out, flip it over the lid and wa-lah!

CoverMates also boasted that they fit every shape. To test it out, I grabbed my large plastic container and yup:




They fit!

Other uses for CoverMates? Covering containers outdoors during a picnic. I hate when insects land on my food. These will prevent the annoying bugs from messing with your meal. My bag also contained a can cover so I use these to put over my soda cans. I always worry a bee will fly in there and I’ll drink it…..(Ew…)

This information is from the back of the container about the CoverMates:


--Heavy Duty Clear Wrap: keeps food fresh, easy-to-see contents

--Corner Vent: Allows Steam to escape when used in microwave

--Build-In Corners: Corners expand to fit rectangular dishware

--Heat Sealed Edge: Eliminates sewing and thread so it’s reusable and dishwasher safe


Yes, that’s right. The CoverMates are even dishwasher safe so you can reuse them again and again.

CoverMates are also BPA and PVA free!

Do you want some CoverMates of your own?

A lucky reader will win a bag that contains 11 covers!






Giveaway Rules

--Must be 18 or older

--Must reside in the US (sorry!)


Mandatory Entry: How would you use CoverMates if you won them?

Extra Entries:

Follow CoverMates on Facebook

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Please leave a separate comment for each entry and make sure your e-mail address is linked to your blog. If not, please leave it in your comment so I can contact you if you win.

I will pick a winner a week from today on August 3rd.

Good luck!

Uprinting.com Flyer Winner

I did a giveaway for 250 flyers from Uprinting.com here.

I used random.org to pick a number and it came up with 15 which was Kablooey.

Congrats!!

Enjoy your flyers.

If you didn’t win, try again. I’ll have many more giveaways. In fact, I'm starting another one today.

Bye Bye July Hodge Podge - Vol 37

It's that time again and to be honest I can't believe it's Wednesday.  I am glad you are here.  Some of you have told me that you really look forward to this ever Wednesday.   Everyone is welcome to join the fun and you can participate to if you want.  Just click on the Joyce links I have provided and head over to Joyces to get the questions......pst them, and then go back to Joyce's to add your link at the bottom, while you are there you can read her answers....and then go visit some of the other participants.  Ready?  We are off!
1. July is National Ice Cream Month...your favorite flavor? Soft serve, hand dipped or frozen yogurt-which do you prefer? And technically yogurt is not ice cream but its hot outside so I'll let that slide for today.
My favorite is gelato from Italy.  I loved the chocolate mint, the strawberry....but if I have to pick an American one then it is plain old homemade vanilla.
2. When you travel do you tend to pack too much or too little?

I used to be a too much girl.  But about five years ago I went to Europe for the second time and I took a carry on.....period....for nine days.  I am going to Cape Cod this weekend.....and taking a back pack....period....checking nothing.
3. What's your favorite cleaning product?

I am a sensory person...Fabuloso lavender.  I love the smell of lavender.  To be honest....I like the smell of clean....so Clorox, Pine Sol, Pledge....all of these evoke strong memories in me.  Murphy's Oil Soap.....not so much.
4. What's the greater tragedy-an innocent person imprisoned or a guilty person set free? Explain.

Both of them are tragedies, but the innocent person imprisoned is to me the greater of the two.  A guilty person set free will be judged by the Almighty one day and will have to live with the knowledge of what they did until their dying day.  The innocent person has lost a lifetime, or at least a chunk of time that cannot be made up.  There are no do-overs.  There was a case of this in the news not long ago.  A man was released on new DNA evidence after serving 14 years in prison.  His child was 5 years old when he went to prison....now she is 19 ....he missed an entire lifetime of memories with her.  That is a major tragedy.
5. What's the longest trip you've taken by car?

I love to travel by car because you can stop, get out, enjoy the local color, and move on.   I have three long ones...althought the 9500 mile Pacific Northwest Trip is probably the longest.  It stretched from Alabama to Vancouver, B.C., down to California and back across to Alabama.  It covered 19 states.  Second longest was when my daughter and I went from Alabama to Prince Edward Island to see Lucy Maude Montgomery's house and soak up some Anne of Green Gables culture.  Third was Alabama to Los Angeles....to San Francisco....back to L.A. and home.  Put me in a car and I am happy....especially if it is heading West...or up the Atlantic Seaboard.  Nice thing about cars....unless you experience car trouble...you leave on time.
6. tennis-golf-canoeing-biking...pick one.

None of the above is not an answer choice....so I am doing a write in.  I loved playing tennis when I was younger.  My friend Susan kept me on my toes.  I loved golf when I was in college because I played it for my physical education credit.  I have played around with it since then....but it is an expensive sport.  I am a klutz....so canoeing and biking are not options for me.....unless you are talking about a stationary bike...then I am all there.
7. What sound drives you crazy?
I am ADD so that could be anything when I am trying to concentrate.  The big two are people smacking when they eat....that one drives me over the edge, and fingernails across a chalk board....which makes my skin crawl.  Tapping pencils on a desk comes in at number three.

8.  Question eight is always your own random thought.  So what is the most random thing you have ever done? 
Two weeks before Thanksgiving my lunch bunch at school was talking about the mafia and the AFL-CIO and whatever happened to the Teamster boss....no one could remember his name.....it drove me nuts for two weeks trying to remember that man's namd.  So, during our family Thanksgiving gathering.....just as my father said, "Let us Pray"....I spoke out a little boisterously with, "Jimmy Hoffa."  As I looked around the room....my family was all looking at me with eyes that said, "Are you crazy?"  I am notorious for having random thoughts like that and then much later bursting out with the answers....with people who did not know the conversation.  I keep a pad of paper and pen beside my desk, bed, and chair....just for those Aha moments.  Sigh!  I guess I am suffering from Old Timers.  Happy Wednesday.  I am leaving tomorrow for Cape Cod for the first annual SMAK (Susan, Missi, Amanda and Karen) girl trip.  I cannot wait!  I will still be posting...but my Project 365 will not be up until late Sunday night.  I will have my camera with me and don't land in Atlanta til after 8 pm. 

Hey, It's Okay Tuesday!

I got this idea from Glamour magazine. They have a section called Hey, It’s Okay and will list a bunch of things to be okay about. You're welcome to join in and do something like this on your diary. Doesn't have to be on a Tuesday either.

----------------------

To sing, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by The Rolling Stones when my kids start to whine about wanting all sorts of things. This bugs them greatly.


To be disturbed over the new show on Lifetime called Dance Moms.


To hope Logan’s Roadhouse is good. I’m trying it out for the first time this week.


To think it’s ridiculous that Kim Kardashian is suing Old Navy for that commercial they aired with her lookalike in it. She claims they used her brand without asking. Or something like that. Apparently you can’t look like Kim or else it’s using her brand.


To be saddened that Amy Winehouse died but wish more people would focus on what happened in Norway. What happened to them is worse. And yes, there are military troops who die daily who unfortunately won’t get the same recognition.


To love that the new Target I shop at has a Starbucks in it. Even though I don’t drink coffee, I still love the smell. And the non-coffee beverages. Oh, and muffins.


To really hate cooking dinner every night. I’m always like, “Ugh, what should I make today?”


To appreciate all the comments in the My New Home post. It is the nicest base housing I’ve been in. It probably helps that it’s privatized, meaning a company runs it, not the base.


To hope Natalie likes her first gymnastics class. She starts Monday. I figured since she likes jumping and rolling all over the floor, why not do it in a class.

What Were They Thinking?

As a teacher I have seen some doozy names in my classes.  I usually am very cautious when it comes to pronouncing them because you just never know when Smith might be pronounced Jones.  My all time favorite was a student with the name Friendcedrick.  Yep, it is pronounced exactly like it looks....Friend Cedrick.  Being the curious one that I am had to ask this child where he got his name.  The student rolled his eyes at me and sighed as he said, "from my momma's friend cedrick."  I felt like an idiot.  Of course that was where he got that name....a moron could have figured that one out.  Anyways.....there are many other interesting names that I have either seen personally or heard about over the  years and I thought today was a good day for a good laugh.  Enjoy them.  So here is my extensive list of the worst names people have named their children:
Babie Boi (pronounced Baby Boy). How can this child ever join the football team?  I.V. This came from a mother having medications through an IV during the birth. She liked the twist on the name. Meconium. These are the first stools an infant makes. Mom heard this word during the birthing process and thought it pretty. Ecstasy. Yes, this little baby girl was called Ecstasy. She was made during it, and will probably be looking for it her whole life. Cherry. Not so bad. Until you look at the last name. Pieland. Yup, Cherry Pieland.  Brook L. Bridge.  I said to her, "I suppose your middle name is Lynn, right?'  She responded with a shocked, "YES!  How did you know?"  Believe me....I did learn something in college.
Of course, every month is taken. January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.  I have had a number of continents and countries like China, Japan, America, Canada, Mexico,Italy, France, Asia, Africa and states like Montana, Wyoming, Alaska, and cities too like Dallas, Phenix, Eufaula, and one dessert....Mojave.  I have had students with names like Precious Unique, Shotatequila (and yes it was pronounced Shot a Tequila).  When I was in the hospital giving birth to Kat the lady in the room with me was combining name parts to come up with her baby's name so she would not hurt anyones feelings.  Good thought....the name was horrendous.  My mom's family had a baby sitter when she was little because both of my grandparents worked the 2nd shift.  Cat was her name and she used to tell stories about children in her family, Female Jones (pronounced Fuh Molly)...supposedly the mom had many children and was relieved when she realized the hospital had taken care of naming her baby for her....the little wrist band they put on children....boys wear one that says "male" and girls....well you get the picture.  She also would go on and tell about Syphilis and Gonorrhea (pronounced suh phyllis and Gon OR ia) the twins  and the last born in a family of eighteen.
I have had other teachers tell me of students named lemonjello and orangejello ( leMonjello and ORANjello), ABCDE (Ah BE sayday),  and last, but certainly not least is Sh**head - (pronounced Shuh Theed).  All I can say is....can you see these on a resume.  I had a friend once who was going to name her new born...all wrapped in pink, Blaze Starr.  I asked her if she was on drugs and then proceded to tell her that she was condemning that precious little one to a life of pole dancing.....or worse.  Godo thing she was a good friend and I could get away with that.  Anyways, she ended up calling her Hannah Naomi.....whoa, talk about a complete turn around.  All I have to say is....come on parents....they poor kids have to spell these names before they can leave kindergarten AND these names will be on their college applications, job applications, and resumes.  Give them a break....and while you are at it....give the teachers one too!  Happy Tuesday!

Kids Can Be So Cruel

Last week I talked about nicknames on my Wednesday Hodge Podge post.  I did this because for sometime I have been thinking about coming out of the closet.  My brother died when I was almost 9 and by the time I was 12 I began noticing that something was not quite right in my world.  At the time my medical condition was attributed to some medications I was taking.  I had been diagnosed with almost non-existant Vitamin A, D, C, and Iron.  So the doctors gave me mega doses of these vitamins and iron because my skin was ashy, my nails brittle and ridged, and my hair had begun to come out in hanks.  I could rake my fingers through my hair and have a handful of hair when I finished.  Every morning I would wake up and there would be remnants of hair on my pillow.  I have to say I was pretty lucky....this happened during the late 60's and early 70's and wigs and hair pieces (falls) were in style.  I owned several of them because my Florida godmother worked at a beauty shop.  I had long ones, curly ones, short ones....and no one ever knew what I hid under my hat of hair....until Phys Ed my 10th grade year.  During P.E. we were doing gymnastics.  We had to walk on a balanced beam, swing from rings, do the pummel horse....and do floor exercises....one of which was a forward roll.  My wig was not secured well enough and after the second roll....I continued....the wig did not.  I can actually laugh about it today....but that day....that day it was not funny.  I was mortified.  I was especially mortified when some of the cool kids called me "Onion Head."  My parents took me to several specialists who tried all kinds of treatments....but to no avail....they even took me to a psychologist who told them I suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome because of my brother's death and could even be pulling my hair out...which made me a freak.  Eventually I made them see I was not doing that....and I learned how to do a sweep over...and my natural part dropped lower and lower.  Many nights I went to bed and cried myself to sleep because I felt like I was a freak.  I did not share this deep dark secret with anyone.  I am sure my closest friends were aware that I was different....but I never talked about it.  My self esteem was shot.  I knew that there would never be a special man for me....who would want me?  I met my first husband....and after a few dates....decided I would just go ahead and lay it all out.....I knew he would run screaming into the night.  I carefully took out the bobby pins that held the sweep over in place and showed him....my biggest nightmare.  He actually cried for me.  When Frank and I had been dating a while I knew I would have to share this with him.....and I was terrified.  It is my biggest fear in life.....sharing the secret....Frank held me tightly....and told me it did not matter....and I knew it didn't.  My name is Karen and I suffer from a condition called alopecia areata. "Alopecia is the medical term for baldness; there are various types of alopecia, including alopecia areata.  Alopecia areata is a condition that causes a person's hair to fall out. It is an autoimmune disease; that is, the person's immune system attacks their body, in this case, their hair follicles. When this happens, the person's hair begins to fall out, often in clumps the size and shape of a quarter. The extent of the hair loss varies; in some cases, it is only in a few spots. In others, the hair loss can be greater.  On rare occasions, the person loses all of the hair on his or her head (alopecia areata totalis) or entire body (alopecia areata universalis)."  I am fortunate that this is not me.  Mine is confined to the top of my head only. "It is believed that the person's genetic makeup may trigger the autoimmune reaction of alopecia areata, along with other unknown triggers.  Alopecia areata is an unpredictable disease. In some people, hair grows back but falls out again later. In others, hair grows back and remains. Each case is unique. Even if someone loses all of his or her hair, there is a chance that it will grow back."  I have suffered with this for over 40 years and don't think it is going to grow back if it hasn't by now.  So I found myself wondering....why me?  Who gets this disease?  I did a lot of research and have seen a lot of doctors over the years and I now know that "anyone can develop alopecia areata; however, your chances of having alopecia areata are slightly greater if you have a relative with the disease. In addition, alopecia areata occurs more often among people who have family members with autoimmune disorders such as diabetes, lupus, or thyroid disease."  The last two were the kickers.  I have had a couple of family members with lupus and every female on my dad's side of the family.....and my own mother have had thyroid disease....except me.  I have all the symptoms of thyroid disease....but test negative every time.  So...at 57 years of age....here I sit....battle scarred from all the years of name calling....sufferer of alopecia.  But you know...I have learned it is alright.  One day in church the preacher talked about hair and I sat up and listened carefully as he read from Luke 12:7: "But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows."  Thank you God for giving me this verse.  I will carry it with me daily.  I have come to believe that my flaw....leads to my ministry.  I am not perfect by any stretch of the imagination....in the world's eyes....but in God's eyes....I was made in His imagine and that speaks volumes.

I Hate Mowers

“You weren’t supposed to put the entire bottle of oil in the mower,” Tom said as he chomped on some M&Ms while we talked on Skype.

I took some deep breaths. My patience was thin. I had been outside for an hour trying to get the mower to work. In 100 degree temperatures. I smelled like sweat mixed with gas. The liquid gas, not the ass gas. “Tom,” I said, teeth clenched. “You didn’t TELL me that.”

All he told me was to get oil and gas for the mower. The oil was baffling enough because I had all these choices:




And then when it came time to get the gas, I overfilled the container so gas spilled all over my favorite flip flops. So then I grabbed the squeegee thing that people use to wash their windows and started washing off my flip flops and this guy pulled up behind me and was like, “Uh, that’s not what that’s meant for.” As though he thought the main reason I came to the gas station was to wash off my flip flops with a dirty squeegee.

“Is this enough gas for a mower?” I asked, ignoring his comment completely. I held up the container.

“Yeah,” the guy answered. He was still looking at me as though I were wearing my bra on my head. He probably updated his Facebook with, “Saw some chick washing her shoes at the gas station.”

Then it came time to put the oil and gas in the mower. I unscrewed each of the caps. I didn’t know how much gas was supposed to go in. I just filled it until I could see the gas. Same with the oil. It wasn’t spilling out of the mower, therefore I thought I could put the entire bottle in.

But no.

I guess not.

Because mowers are bitches.

“You were supposed to put enough oil in until you could see it on the dipstick,” Tom said. His teeth were colored thanks to the M&Ms.

“It should say that on the side of the mower,” I answered.

“Most people know that already,” Tom pointed out. “Did you remember to prime the mower? Maybe that’s why it won’t work.”

“Don’t patronize me, Tom. I know how to prime a mower,” I replied. I mean, okay, I had forgot in the past. But I’m older and wiser now. Sort of.

“You’ll have to drain the oil then,” Tom said as though it were the easiest thing in the world.

“I’ll do no such thing.” I lifted my chin. “You can deal with it when you get home.”

Tom comes home next month from Korea. I’ll be like, “Welcome home…..the backyard looks like a jungle! Yay!”

“You have to take care of the yard,” Tom said firmly. “Or else you’ll get a citation and I sort of want a house to come home to.”

Since we’re in base housing, we can get citations if our yard doesn’t look nice. If you get some many citations, you can get kicked out.

“Well, I’m not draining the oil,” I said stubbornly. “You told me to put oil in the thing, I did, and therefore it should work.”

“You don’t put an entire thing of oil in a mower.”

If I were there, I’d have tossed a handful of M&Ms at his smug face.
“But,” Tom continued. “If you don’t want to fix the mower, I’ll just buy a new one. A self propelled one.”

Ugh. He’s been obsessed with self propelled mowers forever. I made him get a regular one because it was cheaper. His precious self propelled one was an extra hundred bucks.

“No. You can drain the oil when you get back,” I said firmly.

“It might be too late. The mower might be a goner.” Tom said this a little too hopefully. He probably was already picturing his brand new self propelled mower. He’d probably name it Prop. (Oh wait, that’s me. I name inanimate objects, Tom does not.)

Tom might be right about the mower being a goner though.

I’ll try to figure it out.

If all else fails, I could always kick it and hope it comes back to life. Don’t things work like that in Jackie Chan movies?

Slavery - Notes on President John Adams & Slavery

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President John Adams

John Adams did not own slaves.

1776: John Adams discussed trade resolutions before the continental congress: "There is one Resolution I will not omit. Resolved that no Slaves be imported into any of the thirteen colonies." (Peabody, p 197)

1776: John Adams was delighted with Jefferson’s draft of the Declaration of Independence and its “flights of oratory... especially that concerning Negro slavery, which, though I knew his Southern brethren would never suffer to pass in Congress, I certainly would never oppose.” (Peabody, p 201)

1819: “Negro Slavery is an evil of colossal magnitude.” (Ellis, p 140)

1820: “I shudder when I think of the calamities which slavery is likely to produce in this country. You would think me mad if I were to describe my anticipations…If the gangrene is not stopped I can see nothing but insurrection of the blacks against the whites.”(Smith, p 138)

1821: “Slavery in this Country I have seen hanging over it like a black cloud for half a century…”(Ellis, p 138)

This research is done by librarian Rob Lopresti and may be found on his website here.
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President George Washington & Slavery

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1790s Christian Gullager 1759-1826 George Washington.

When George Washington took over Mount Vernon at age 22 there were 18 slaves. When he married he gained control of 200 more which technically belonged to the estate of his wife’s first husband. By 1786, he owned 216 slaves. (Flexner,p114)

While George Washington was serving as president in Philadelphia, a Pennsylvania law was passed freeing slaves whose owners had been citizens of the state for six months. George Washington sent his two most valuable slaves home, telling them it was for his wife’s convenience.(Wilkins,p76)

In 1796 Oney (or Ona) Judge ran away to New Hampshire. She was one of George Washington’s slaves - Martha’s personal servant. President George Washington asked the Treasury Secretary and a customs agent for help in getting her back, by force, if necessary - but she never returned.(Wilkins. P82. also: Gerson)

When George Washington left the presidency he apparently left some house slaves behind in Philadelphia, knowing that under state law they would be quietly freed by having spent a certain amount of time in Pennsylvania. (Flexner)

When he died in 1799 his will called for his manservant William Lee to be freed immediately, and given a pension. The other slaves were to be freed when his widow died. Martha chose to free them two years later. According to Abigail Adams this was because Martha Washington feared her life might be in danger, since her death meant freedom for the slaves.(Hirschfield p 214)

Neither George Washington nor Martha Washington could legally free the dower slaves which still belonged to the Custis estate.

1766: George Washington sent a “rogue and runaway” slave to the islands to be sold for rum, molasses, etc. (Flexner,p114)

1774: George Washington said new British laws would make Americans "as tame and abject slaves as the blacks we rule over with such arbitrary sway." (Flexner, p114)

1778/9: George Washington was reluctant to buy or sell slaves, although he felt that: “If these poor wretches are to be held in a state of slavery, I do not see that a change of masters will render it more irksome, provided husband and wife, and parents are not separated from each other, which is not my intention to do." (Flexner, p118)

1786 George Washington complained about a Quaker abolitionist society: “I can only say that no man living wishes more sincerely than I do to see the abolition of (slavery)…But when slaves who are happy & content to remain with their present masters, are tampered with & seduced to leave them… it introduces more evils than it can cure."(Hirschfield,p187)

Before 1793:"The unfortunate condition of the people whose labors I in part employed has been the only unavoidable subject of regret. To make the adults among them as easy and comfortable as their actual state of ignorance and improvidence would admit; and to lay a foundation to prepare the rising generation for a destiny different from that in which they were born, afforded some satisfaction to my mind, and could not, I hoped, be displeasing to the justice of the Creator." (Flexner, p121)

1793: As president George Washington signed the Fugitive Slave Act.

1793: George Washington hoped to rent and/or sell parts of his land, freeing the slaves to work as laborers. In a private letter he said his most powerful motive was:"to liberate a certain species of property which I possess very repugnantly to my own feelings, but which imperious necessity compels, and until I can substitute some other expedient by which expenses not in my power to avoid (however well disposed I may be to do it) can be defrayed." He was unable to find suitable renters or buyers and the plan fell through.(Flexner, p113)

Approx 1794: One of George Washington’s slaves died: “I hope every necessary care and attention was afforded him. I expect little from (Overseer) McKoy, or indeed from most of his class, for they seem to consider a Negro much in the same light as they do the brute beasts on the farms, and often treat them as inhumanely.” (Wilkins,p83)

1796: Oney (or Ona) Judge ran away to New Hampshire.She was one of George Washington’s slaves – Martha’s personal servant. President George Washington asked the Treasury Secretary for help in getting her back: “I am sorry to give you, or any one else trouble on such a trifling occasion, but the ingratitude of the girl, who was brought up and treated more like a child than a Servant (and Mrs Washington’s desire to recover her) ought not to escape with impunity if it can be avoided.”(Wilkins,p82)

1796: A federal customs official in New Hampshire located George Washington’s runaway slave Oney Judge.George Washington asked him to “seize her and put her on board a Vessel bound immediately to this place or to Alexandria (Virginia).” The customs official warned that this would spark a riot.(Gerson )

1796:, The customs official wrote that Oney Judge agreed to return if George Washington promised to free her in his will. George Washington wrote to the customs official:“I regret that the attempt you made to restore the Girl (Oney Judge as she called herself while with us, and who without the least provocation absconded from her Mistress) should have been attended with so little Success. To enter into such a compromise with her as she suggested to you is totally inadmissible, for reasons that must strike at first view: for however well disposed I might be to gradual abolition, or even to an entire emancipation of that description of People (if the latter was in itself practicable at this moment) it would neither be political or just to reward unfaithfulness with a premature preference; and thereby discontent before hand the minds of all her fellow-servants who by their steady attachments are far more deserving of favor.” Oney Judge remained free.(Wilkins,p82)

1799: George Washington complained that he had too many slaves. “To sell the overplus I cannot, because I am principled against this kind of traffic in the human species. To hire them out is almost as bad, because they could not be disposed of in families to any advantage, and to disperse the families I have an aversion.What then is to be done? Something must or I shall be ruined…” (Hirschfield,p74)

1799: When George Washington died his will called for his manservant William Lee to be freed immediately, and given a pension. The other slaves were to be freed when his widow died. Martha chose to free them two years later. According to Abigail Adams this was because Martha Washington feared her life might be in danger, since her death meant freedom for the slaves. (Hirschfield p 214) Neither George Washington nor Martha Washington could legally free the dower slaves (which Martha brought to the marriage) because they still belonged to the Custis estate.

This research is done by librarian Rob Lopresti and may be found on his website here.
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Project 365 - Week 30

I am on the downside of summer vacation.  I can't believe we are already at week 30.  It has been a blast so far.  I sit around and think of things I want to photograph....and I am thrilled when I get to cross one off my list.  Thanks to Sara our host over at "...Make Music From Your Heart to the Lord."  If you would like to try your hand at it then join us.  We would love to have you.  If you want to see more pictures then click on the link and enjoy!

Sunday, July 17th

We live near Lake Wedowee and all kinds of boats drive by our house heading to the lake.  I thought this sign from the Baptist Church next door was a great one.

Monday, July 18th

On CR 78, headed to the house, we found this little "church in the wildwood" (reference to an old gospel song) and I thought it was too pretty to pass up.

Tuesday, July 19th 

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Headed back to the house on Hwy 22.  When you see this sign we are the 5th house on the right....or the first house just past the Towler Farms sign.  You can't miss us!

Wednesday, July 20th

(Shorter Mansion in Eufaula)

 We got up this morning and headed to Panama City to see Ramona and her family.  It was supposed to be a trip with Kat....but she had to back out because of a job interview.  We headed down Hwy 431 and eventually picked up Hwy 231 in Dothan and then it was on to Ramona's.  The Shorter Mansion is in Eufaula, AL.  There are a lot of glorious mansions there and every Spring they have a pilgrimage where the homes are opened and you can tour them.  If you have never done that....and love old antebellum mansions....you might want to check out Eufaula.  Eufaula also has a wonderful lake....and bass fishing is wonderful....so you can even bring your cherished hubbies with you....and stay at the Lakepoint Lodge on the lake....gorgeous view every morning.  We ate lunch at Big Mama's on the Bayou and then supper was at Boondocks.  Boondocks is a dining experience and if you are ever in Panama City....or Mexico Beach....try it....but go early because even the locals love this place.  It is owned by Hillary Head.  Her brother Mark is a member of our church.  Definitely six degrees of separation....don't you think?

Thursday, July 21st

Today we went sightseeing.  It was entirely too hot for the beach and we are going to a concert tonight at the Pier Park.  The first picture in the set where we ate on Weds.  We passed it again today and I caught a quick picture out of the window.  I loved the places sign and had to get that one.  We checked out the historic downtowns and marinas of Panama City and St. Andrews.  I just love Florida houses....they look so .....well....Beachy.  Toms is where we ate lunch.  It is like a New York hotdog place....very tiny narrow building....but the dogs are wonderful.  I had a downtown dog, Frank had a special and downtown dog, Drew had a slaw dog.  The decor is deco, flea market, junk yard all rolled into one.  I loved it!  I especially loved the cow jumping over the moon clock. 

Friday, July 22nd

Dothan, AL is the home of the National Peanut Festival.  It is held sometime in October I think.

Saturday, July 23rd

We changed our sign this week so I thought I would finish off the week with our new sign.  I like it.  While outside watering flowers I heard a grunting sneeze sound and looked up and there in the pasture next to my house was a gorgeous horse.  He belong to the Towlers who live behind me....and he had gotten into their hay field.  He was having a buffet of hay that they will cut soon.  Mr. Horse was so caught up in the hay he nicely stood and let me (the paparazzi) take picture after picture of him.  He also posed for a few....then Chris (the owner) snuck up on him and lead him back to his real home.  I was delighted!  Have a great week....and don't forget....the phrase, "Don't leave home without it" really applies to your camera.  Have camera....will travel!

Soldier Cards by SemperWifey Review

In this digital age, I still prefer a handwritten letter.

In fact, I handwrite thank you cards. I don’t shoot off a text, I don’t e-mail…..no, I sit down and write a proper thank you letter.

This means that I love stationary. I have many different kinds: flowery, glittery, pink, purple...

And now, soldier.




Aren’t these cute?

I got them from SemperWifey. She has a fabulous Etsy shop where she sells these cards for a great deal. You can get a set of 8 for $12 or you can just get individual cards at $2.50 each.

Even better? If you use the code SEMPER15 you get 15% off PLUS free shipping. The coupon expires August 1st.

I was really impressed with the cards. They aren’t thin and flimsy and the picture on the front looks crisp and not grainy. I plan on using one of the cards to write to Tom and I imagine he’ll appreciate the soldier stationary to the flowery ones I have been using.

So if you want to surprise someone with a handwritten letter, head over to SemperWifey’s Esty shop and get started! (And yes, she even has a blog.)


Do you still write handwritten letters?

Richard, Rexton and Why I Teach

Teachers, if they are lucky, experience a child really special during their tenure in a classroom.  I have been a fortunate one and have had many students that I would call special.  Some of them have been outstanding ball players, some became doctors, lawyers, judges, and some have made it in the musical world.  Richard and Rex were two of those musical special students.  They would bring their guitars and come to my room every morning at 7 and we would play and sing until the call in bell rang.  Richard is a fabulous musician and when he finishes playing a guitar it actually sighs when he sets it down.  Before the boys graduated from high school the three of us sang together at the Loft in Columbus.  I have a picture on my desk that reminds me daily of that night.  Everytime I look at that picture I remember just exactly why I do what I do. 

But back to the guys, Richard is currently playing with a group, the Vegabonds, that is touring the United States.  He alone is fantastic....but his group is phenomenal.  Back in April they opened at SunFest in West Palm Beach for the Allman Brothers Band.  Can you imagine that....opened for the Allman Brothers. 

Rexton is in Nashville and sings all over the south.  He is a down home country boy, the kind girls scream over, momma's love, and has a voice that you could listen to forever.   I was on facebook this morning and found Reverbnation and through that was able to share one of his new songs with you all and I do this with pride.  When I heard the song this morning I actually cried because it touched a nerve.  It is called "Somethin" to Someone" and it is one of those songs that you will never forget....even if it doesn't mean something to you....you know someone it applies to.  I have had many good years with many wonderful kids....and you know...it is the kids like Richard and Rex that make you proud you are a teacher.

Pressing Into Thin Spaces

“When Jesus delivered His Sermon on the Mount, He spoke specifically to the poor in spirit, the slope-shouldered individuals who had lost the hope that they would change or that anything about them would ever be any different, “ says Dr. Margaret Harrell Willis in her book, ‘Pressing into Thin Places: Encouraging the Heart toward God .’ She goes on to say that Jesus “blessed those who were desperate, needy, and at the end of their rope. He offered hope.” Dr. Margaret Harrell Wills’ book shows us ways to get through our troubled times.
About the Book:  It is obvious that life is neither easy nor simple. If you doubt that all you have to do is take a quick scan of a newspaper headlines or watch the nightly news on television to be given a rude awakening that we live in a world full of hardship, grief, and pain, and it does not appear to be improving any time soon. Yet we do not have to despair. Instead we need to become empowered by the truth that there is a God who loves us and wants the best for us. This book is just that. It is road map to show us how to rest in God’s love, to seek His love out, to press close to the source of this great love, to find a way to worship God, and to hold fast to His promises daily. The book is a series of short anecdotes, personal memoirs, observations, prayers, and a collection of beautiful prose and poetry, Dr. Margaret Wills invites her readers to come and join her on her own personal search in the midst of loss and pain. The book is one that encourages us to praise and have a deep appreciation at all times, and for us to be aware that God’s love is unchanging. The book is an intimate revelation, as Dr. Wills explores the “thin places” where God’s presence is deeply felt and heaven and earth intersect for a brief and shining moment. According to Dr. Wills these ‘“thin places” can be a momentary awareness or a profound unexplainable experience.” Dr. Wills delves into the character of God as our Father, our King, and also as our servant and wise teacher. Throughout the book she encourages and invites the reader to experience with her some “thin place” moments when God lifted the veil in her own life and allowed her to see that although she was confined to the earth, there is a better place.

About the Author: “Dr. Margaret Harrell Wills is dedicated to the ministry of encouragement, helping people experience hope, wisdom, and faith in their spiritual journey. Dr. Wills grew up in Phoenix, Arizona. She received her undergraduate degree from John Brown University, a master’s degree from Arizona State University, and received her doctoral degree in higher education with a teaching field of history from the University of Arkansas. She taught American History at the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  A writer and a poet, Dr. Wills is dedicated to the ministry of encouragement and helping people experience hope, wisdom, and faith in their spiritual journey. She has written for a number of publications, including The Journal of the Fort Smith Historical Society and Issues and Inquiry in College Learning and Teaching. She previously served on the board of the Arkansas Community Foundation as an appointee of Governor Mike Huckabee. She has been a guest lecturer in the Leadership and Ethics Program at John Brown University and has spoken on the topic of “Leaving a Character Legacy.” She is a graduate of Chuck Colson’s Centurion Program for Worldview Leadership, an intensive and demanding education program that prepares Christians to articulate and live out their faith with authenticity and to lead effectively in the marketplace of ideas. Her home is in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where she lives with her husband, Paul.
From the Book: In the Introduction by Tim Boswell, he makes several important points, but the one that seemed to stand out for me was “we are not promised an uneventful journey, only a safe arrival.” This book is a preparation for the journey.” Dr. Wills encourages us within the pages of her book to press close to the source of our peace and find our “thin places” and find that there is life beyond the fallen one our eyes are focused on.” Dr. Wills shares with us poems and stories on spiritual flatness, storms. Encounters, pressure tested faith, the character of faith during adversity, knowing who is in control, faith during fire, believing without seeing, signs, having a listening heart, presumptions, finding a starting place, God’s teachings, casting stones, being a vine, making the right choice, and praising. This book is a strong encouragement about our future: If we believe then we have a future that is filled with hope and infinite possibilities. There is just one small thing we must do. We must have faith. Whatever challenges we are facing is one more opportunity to experience the reality of God in our daily life. When we are tired and confused and don’t know where to go or what to do, there is a simple solution. Go to Jesus.
My Thoughts: I loved the book. The stories and poems are brief and made it easy for me to carry this book in my purse for several days and read it whenever I had a few minutes (ie the Dr’s office, hospital waiting rooms, etc). The book would make a lovely gift because of its size, hardcover, and lovely dust jacket. This is the kind of book women love, some men would like it, preachers would want it in their libraries for references. I was deeply touched by the stories, the poems, the questions it provoked in my mind. If you would like a copy of this book you can follow the link I provided here and order one for your own library.
Disclaimer: This book was published by Brown Christian Press and provided by The B & B Media Group for review purposes. I received this book free from the B & B Media Group as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255. This book was published by Brown Christian Press and provided by The B & B Media Group for review purposes.